You are in a room filled with people talking.A couple close to you is having an argument but you are focused on a conversation between you and a close friend.After the party,you are driving home and a car runs a stoplight in front of you.You feel anxious and upset.Suddenly,the words from the couple that were arguing surface in your memory.What explains this phenomenon?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The phenomenon described is known as the cocktail party phenomenon, which is the ability to attend to one conversation while filtering out others. The words from the arguing couple may have been unconsciously processed and stored in memory, and the stressful event of the car running the stoplight may have triggered their recall.

You Are in a Room Filled with People Talking